Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing Recipe

If you’re craving a salad that bursts with fresh textures and bold flavors, the Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing is going to become your new favorite. This salad masterfully balances the crisp sweetness of apples with the tangy saltiness of feta, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy dressing that sings in every bite. Each forkful delivers a delightful harmony of garden greens, tart dried cherries, crunchy candied nuts, and a dressing that ties it all together with a luscious, herby touch. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again for lunch, dinner, or as a stunning side dish at your next gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one adds a unique layer of flavor or texture, contributing to a perfectly balanced, visually vibrant dish. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this salad to life:

• 4 cups mixed garden greens: A fresh, crisp base that adds color and lightness.
• ¼ cup tart dried cherries: These add a pop of tangy sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
• ¼ red onion, sliced thin: For a mildly sharp bite that cuts through the richness.
• 1 pink lady or honey crisp apple, cored and sliced thin: Adds crunch and natural sweetness with every bite.
• ¼ cup candied walnuts or pecans: A crunchy, sweet element that complements both the fruit and cheese.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (110g): Provides a creamy, tangy base for the dressing and a dose of protein.
• ½ cup feta cheese (80g): Crumbled and blended to create that signature creamy, salty dressing.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps emulsify the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil: Brings a fragrant, herbaceous note that elevates the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds bright acidity to balance the creaminess; adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and spice.
• 1 garlic clove: Fresh garlic kick for depth and character in the dressing.

How to Make Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing

Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Feta Dressing

Gather all your dressing ingredients and pop them into a blender or use a handheld immersion blender. Blend everything until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and perfectly emulsified. This dressing is the star of the show, so make sure it’s velvety with just the right balance of tang from the vinegar and saltiness from the feta. Once blended, chill it in the fridge while you prepare the salad to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad Base

Start by placing your mixed garden greens evenly across four salad plates. The greens act as a refreshing canvas for the other ingredients. Next, scatter the tart dried cherries and thin red onion slices over the beds of greens—this adds bursts of sharp, tangy flavor and exciting splashes of color that make the salad visually inviting.

Step 3: Add the Apples and Nuts

Thin apple slices (choose either Pink Lady or Honey Crisp for their sweet-tart profile) are layered gently atop the greens and cherries. Their crisp texture adds a perfect contrast to the creamy dressing. Sprinkle the candied walnuts or pecans last—these give a wonderful crunch and a sweet finish that’s simply irresistible.

Step 4: Drizzle and Serve

Finally, spoon the chilled creamy feta dressing generously over the salads just before serving. The dressing ties every component together, coating the apples, greens, and nuts in a luscious, herby tang. Serve immediately to enjoy the full spectrum of flavors and textures in this stunning Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing.

How to Serve Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing

Garnishes

A few fresh basil leaves or a light sprinkle of crumbled feta on top makes this salad look even more inviting while enhancing the fresh, herbal notes of the dressing. A little extra crunch from whole candied nuts can be added just before serving for texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or even a hearty vegetable quiche. Its fresh and creamy components complement proteins and baked dishes without overpowering them, making it an ideal side for lighter meals or elegant dinners.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this salad in individual mason jars or clear glass bowls to showcase the colorful layers of greens, apples, cherries, and nuts topped with the creamy feta dressing. This presentation is perfect for casual gatherings or picnic-style meals where you want a dish that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers. This prevents the greens and apples from getting soggy. Keep the dressing refrigerated for up to 3 days and toss everything together just before serving again.

Freezing

Because of the fresh greens and apples, it’s best not to freeze this salad—the texture and flavor won’t hold up well. However, you can freeze the creamy feta dressing alone in a small container for up to one month and thaw it gently in the refrigerator before use.

Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and cold, so reheating is not recommended. To enjoy leftovers, simply reassemble the salad with fresh greens and apples, then drizzle with the chilled creamy feta dressing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the dressing?

While feta is essential for the distinctive tang and creaminess in this recipe, you can experiment with goat cheese for a milder flavor. Keep in mind the texture and saltiness may vary, altering the overall balance.

Are there alternatives to candied walnuts or pecans?

Absolutely! Toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds can work well, adding crunch and a different nutty note. If you prefer less sweetness, omit the candied coating and use plain toasted nuts instead.

How long can I store the prepared dressing?

The creamy feta dressing keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Stir well before using, as some separation may occur.

Can I make the salad vegan?

This recipe relies on feta cheese and Greek yogurt for its signature flavor and creaminess, but you can try using dairy-free yogurt and vegan feta alternatives. Expect slightly different tastes and textures, but it will still be delicious!

What is the best type of apple for this salad?

Pink Lady and Honey Crisp apples are ideal for this salad because they offer a satisfying crunch along with a balanced sweet-tart flavor that holds up well against the creamy dressing and tangy cheese.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say this Apple Salad with Creamy Feta Dressing is a total game changer for your salad repertoire. It’s effortless to make yet packed with flavor, texture, and vibrant colors that brighten any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a beautiful side, or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this recipe is your new go-to. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes one of your favorites too!

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